WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 struck Haiti. While reports are still being gathered, it appears many schools, hospitals and other buildings have collapsed, and the destruction is widespread.

Representative Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) met with the U.S. Department of State for an update on the crisis and has been closely monitoring the urgent situation in Haiti. She issued the following statement after her briefing.

"My sincerest prayers go to those in Haiti and their American families and friends. I pray that all families are successfully reunited and the injured are swiftly aided.

"I am pleased with President Obama's call for expediting U.S. based humanitarian aid. The Dept. of State assured me that humanitarian organizations are on the ground in Haiti and aid is being dispensed. To that end, I support immediate U.S. assistance to Haiti in the wake of this catastrophe."

Families of Americans living in Haiti are encouraged to visit the State Department's website for the most up-to-date information."


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